To Each Her Own (The Swirl Book 1) by Sylvia Sinclair Read Free Book Online Page A

was for you, not me.”
    Maya leaned closer. “Oh, I am very clear about what you said about black men. And also, about what you said your father would think about it.”
    Shasta crossed her legs at the ankles. “Maya, it is not that serious. He’s just a friend from work.”
    Maya pointed at Shasta. “See. Don’t even try it. Don’t forget that I know you pretty damn well. I can even see it on your face. He is not just a friend. He’s more than that.”
    “He is not.”
    “Oh yes he is.  And I’m quite sure you two have already done the deed. I know he made his move. That’s what that look on your face is. You got caught up in that good feeling, and that’s what’s got you sounding like you’re beating around the bush. You’ve never sounded like this before. You are really seeing him.”
    “I am not seeing him.”
    “Well, if you two are having sex, then you're seeing him. So maybe you should cease calling him just your friend, and add the words homie and lover. I’m not stupid.”
    Shasta came to a stance. “You know what?”
    “Yes, I do. You are seeing Ramón.”
    Shasta said nothing.
    “Look, Shasta, you can do and see whoever you want to see. But the thing is, we just talked about this and you sounded so closed minded about any other race. And now, days later, you've spent time with Ramón, of all people. I’m totally confused. Oh, and tell me; whatever happened to your list?”
    “He’s on my friend list.”
    “Yeah, right. You don’t have a damn friend list. And anyway, just like the pizza guy who you said doesn't have a profession, may I remind you that Ramón doesn’t either.”
    “Good grief. Maya.” Shasta reached over to pick up her purse. “I’m not trying to marry him.” She put the strap along her arm. “I’m just having a good time. Like I said, he’s fun, plain and simple. He’s no stress, no pressure, and he’s charming as hell. I like him.”
    “Uh-huh.” Maya gave a skeptical eye.
    Shasta looked down and then at Maya. “Okay, fine.”
    “Fine what?”
    She sighed. “I have had sex with him. Sex with a short, black, mailroom guy named Ramón, who is undoubtedly, the best lover I’ve ever had.” She looked inside of her purse, grabbed her keys and closed it. “I’m excited to be able to see him when I can. I’ve had absolutely no one for so long. It's new.” She jingled her keys. “And trust me, I’m not trying to bring him home to daddy, or talk about love and babies and a future. I just wanted you to know because we talk about everything. Heck, we work together. All three of us. Me, you and him.”
    Maya nodded. She blinked a long blink. “I knew it. And yes, I know we all work together. It’s just that I’m surprised, that’s all. I mean, what do you two have in common other than that? I’m concerned that he hasn’t even worked here long and he’s already made his way to making a move on you, a Senior Vice President at that.”
    “It’s okay. If it ends up being a problem with the company, that’s on me, not him. I’m an executive and I know the risks. But I don’t plan on it going any further, or being an issue.” Shasta’s phone sounded. She took it from her purse.
    Ramón: I’m here.
    She said, “Listen, Maya. I’ve got to go.” She put her phone and keys in the same hand, and opened the door. She stepped out and so did Maya, locking and closing it.
    Maya said softly, “I’ll talk to you later.”
    Shasta looked back and examined Maya’s face. “Smile, girl.”
    “I am, can’t you tell?” She flashed a big grin that faded quickly.
    “What I see is a wrinkled forehead. Talk to you later.”
    Maya just strode on.
    Shasta texted back:
    Shasta: Leaving work now.

Chapter 6
     
    Midtown Atlanta
     
    Shasta and Ramón had been drinking and eating jerk chicken, mussels, and crawfish eggrolls for about an hour. They sat across from each other at a small table at the Highlander, a bar and grill in Midtown, a place known for having